Winter Update

This fall has been a whirlwind of programming, fundraising, and advocacy for all of us at Hunger Free Vermont.   We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the response of the Vermont community who have joined our efforts to end hunger.  We've worked together in 2012 with dozens of partners including: VT School Nutrition Association, the Intervale Center, Vermont Youth Conservation Corps, Vermont FEED, Vermont Community Foundation, Vermont Public Radio, the Department of Children and Families, the Department of Education, and hundreds of individual volunteers and service providers.  We are truly thankful for the dedication of this statewide community.

Issues that have been particularly worrisome these last few months are the looming potential cuts to the 3SquaresVT (SNAP) program at the national level.  So much must be accomplished in Congress between now and December 31^st to address the fiscal cliff and prevent automatic cuts to programs.  All of us working to end hunger and poverty have a simple message for our Congressional leaders. 

Do not cut 3SquaresVT (SNAP).  Do not make tax changes that put low-income people at greater disadvantage. 

Cuts to 3SquaresVT (SNAP) in the Farm Bill could make thousands of Vermont families less able to put food on their tables.  Cutting programs such as WIC, LIHEAP, housing programs, and Head Start will force families to make even harder choices about their household budgets.  Increasing taxes on lower and middle income families will drive demand even higher for safety-net programs. 

Our message to Congress is to protect and strengthen programs that shield people from falling in to poverty.  Use these programs to get people back to work and keep our communities healthy.  We've seen the success of nutrition programs in Vermont through this recession.  Any cuts to safety-net programs would be a set back for Vermont families.

We would love your help advocating for good programs and strong policy that keep our communities healthy.  As a New Year’s resolution, I hope you will consider joining our Ambassador Program where together we can continue to create strong and healthy communities.

Peace to you all in the New Year!